Throw a snag on the barbie, grab yourself a cold drink and throw in a lamington for good measure – Australia Day is here!

The festivities will be kicking off early this year with events at Canton Beach Foreshore and Kibble Park, Gosford on the eve of our official national day – Wednesday 25 January.

Those attending the Kibble Park event can expect face painting, an interactive performance by Little Puppet World and performances by the Voice’s Ellie Drennan and The Rhythm Hunters.

While at Canton Beach, there will be beach games, an animal farm, lamington making and the Ozi Maid Bush Band.

In a fitting finale, a traditional fireworks spectacular is planned to close both these fantastic community celebrations.

To celebrate Australia Day on Thursday 26 January, there will be a range of events across the Central Coast to get everyone into the spirit.

Celebrations will start early in Wagstaffe with an official ceremony and a free breakfast.

The Entrance will be a hive of activity, featuring amusement rides, an ice cream eating competition, a performance from Mental as Anything and finish with a fireworks display.

While in Woy Woy, there will be market stalls, live music, the traditional lantern parade and of course, a fireworks spectacular.

Taking part in this year’s official celebrations will be the Central Coast’s Australia Day Ambassador, John Dooley.

An Ambassador for White Ribbon since 2011, John has presented at countless events, conferences and functions; raising awareness and reinforcing the pivotal role men have in keeping women safe in our community.

John has also had a distinguished career with the NSW Police and is a personable, well-respected member of the community.

Attending a number of events, John will be spreading an important message, illustrating his passion for helping others and his community.

Aside from the many events taking place around the Central Coast, Council will also be naming the inaugural Central Coast Citizen of the Year.

Spanning several categories, the awards are designed to showcase locals who have shown outstanding dedication to their community, workplace, arts, culture or sport.

Our newly crowned Citizen of the Year will also represent the community at our annual Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony where 160 people will be naturalised.

Hailing from over 40 countries including the United Kingdom, Italy, Bangladesh and Vanuatu our newest citizens will be celebrated in an official ceremony and will now officially call the Central Coast home!

For a full list of Australia Day events including details, times and locations from around the Central Coast, head to our Facebook page at facebook.com/centralcoastcouncil

• Australia Day Eve at Canton Beach Foreshore will run from 4pm – 9pm. Proudly brought to you by Greater Toukely Vision and sponsored by Central Coast Council and 101.3 SeaFM.

• Australia Day Eve at Kibble Park, Gosford will run from 5pm – 9.30pm. Proudly brought to you by Central Coast Council and sponsored by 104.5 STAR FM.

• Australia Day at Wagstaffe Waterfront will run from 8am – 10.30am. Proudly brought to you by the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Association and sponsored by Central Coast Council.

• Australia Day at Memorial Park, The Entrance will run from 12pm – 9pm. Proudly brought to you by Central Coast Council and sponsored by 101.3 SeaFM, The Greens The Entrance, Paviers Amusements, The Entrance Ice Creamery, Mingara and Pullman Magenta Shores.

• Australia Day at Fisherman’s Wharf, Woy Woy will run from 2pm – 9.30pm. Proudly brought to you by Central Coast Council and sponsored by 104.5 STAR FM.